TLC axes 19 Kids and Counting, aside form a new special

by

Sara McGinnis

posted in Celebrities

After much "thoughtful consideration," TLC has made the decisions to officially cancel 19 Kids and Counting in the wake of Josh Duggar's molestation scandal. We haven't yet seen the last of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar's big family on our screens however, as the station is still planning to air a new one-hour special.

The official statement from TLC explains in part:

Over these past weeks, TLC has consulted regularly with leading victims' rights and advocacy organizations in the U.S., including RAINN and Darkness to Light, to discuss how to use this moment to address the issue and make a positive impact. Unfortunately, child sexual abuse is not an isolated issue; it affects many children and families around the world. To that end, we are partnering with both organizations on a multi-platform campaign to raise awareness and educate parents and families about the issue. In the first phase of this initiative, TLC will work closely with both groups and with the Duggar family on a one-hour documentary that will include Jill and Jessa and other survivors and families that have been affected by abuse.

TLC has been especially concerned for the victims in this situation, including the Duggar family, and it is our hope that this effort will help those in need learn where to turn for information and help. The documentary will be commercial free, and we anticipate it will air later this summer.

The Duggar family also released a statement Thursday morning, confirming 19 Kids and Counting's cancelation.

"With God’s grace and help Josh, our daughters and our entire family overcame a terrible situation, found healing and a way forward," a portion of their message reads. "We are so pleased with the wonderful adults they have all become."

As for what will likely be their last project with TLC, Jim Bob and Michelle wrote, "We look forward to working with TLC on this upcoming special documentary and hope that it is an encouragement to many."

Many called for the show to be axed as Josh's history came to light and concerns were raised about how the situation was handled by both the family and law enforcement. Despite many being happy to hear the show will not continue on, the feedback TLC is receiving is harsh. A look at a handful of tweets sent this morning in reaction to the news:

it took @TLC long enough to do the right thing; take the lying Duggars off. They're done on TV. I hope they get their house in order.

No kidding. Amazing that it took this long. Pathetic.

Thank you, Jesus!!!

@AP can @tlc cancel all of their other terrible shows as well?

I can't say I'm surprised to hear the show has been canceled, as the backlash the network would have faced by returning it to air would have been severe, but I didn't see the one-hour special coming. It's an interesting approach to dealing with such a scandal, and it leaves me with mixed feelings.

On the one hand I'd like to applaud TLC for trying to educate all, but on the other I just don't want to hear anything more from the Duggars on the topic.

Tell us

Do you applaud TLC's cancelation of 19 Kids and Counting? Will you watch the one-hour special?

Photos courtesy of TLC, REX USA

 

A look back at Duggar family news that has made headlines over the years: